“Former Commissioner Charles Aniagwu Refutes Chief Edwin Clark’s Accusations Against Ex-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.”
By Comrade Victor Ojei popularly called Wong Box. (Feel free to WhatsApp us via 08038785262)
Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the former Commissioner for Information in Delta State, expressed his disagreement with the accusations made by Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman, against former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Aniagwu stated during an interview with TVC that Chief Clark’s allegations were not consistent with the reality of the state.
Aniagwu mentioned that Chief Clark had not visited Delta for a long time, and the information he received about Okowa’s administration was politically motivated. He believed that Chief Clark was being manipulated by individuals who were disgruntled after losing the gubernatorial contest in the state.
The former Information Commissioner explained that Chief Clark and other leaders supported a different candidate during the elections but were defeated due to Governor Okowa’s performance and the credibility of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Aniagwu emphasized that the democratic process was followed, and Deltans overwhelmingly voted for Oborevwori across the majority of the local government areas.
Aniagwu clarified that the individuals who lost the election resorted to tarnishing Okowa’s image, blaming him for their defeat. He further pointed out that Chief Clark had been a strong supporter of the former governor throughout his tenure and had never raised any concerns while Okowa was in office. Aniagwu suggested that the elder statesman should engage in discussions that contribute to the state’s progress instead of spreading stories influenced by individuals with ulterior motives.
Regarding Clark’s accusation about the amendment of the DESOPADEC law to favor the Ika ethnic nationality, Aniagwu dismissed the claim, stating that the Oil Mining Licence OML 147 was located in Obi-Ayima and Owa-Alidinma in the Ika Federal Constituency, with Pan Ocean as the company responsible for drilling from the oil field.
Aniagwu acknowledged Chief Clark’s significant contributions to national discourse in the past and urged him not to be misled by individuals who distort reality. He emphasized that the accusations raised by Clark were not aligned with the actual situation. Aniagwu clarified that they did not send anyone to beg the elder statesman, as alleged.
Regarding DESOPADEC, Aniagwu explained that the amendments made were aimed at improving the governance structure of the Commission. He highlighted the accomplishments of DESOPADEC, including the construction of roads, bridges, jetties, and schools, as well as the connection of communities such as Utonlila, Ogbogoro, and Ogheye-Dimigun in Warri North Local Government Area.
Aniagwu also mentioned that Okowa had made extensive visits to the creeks and oil-producing communities in the state, and significant progress had been made in the construction of the Trans-Warri Road with 19 bridges to Ode-Itsekiri. He expressed his belief that Chief Clark was not aware of these developments.
Aniagwu highlighted the establishment of three new universities by the Okowa administration to enhance access to higher education by upgrading existing institutions. He further stated that all four universities in the state remained in session throughout the eight-month ASUU strike, as the state government met the demands of the schools that were similar to those of their federal counterparts.
Aniagwu concluded by expressing pride in the achievements of the Okowa administration during their eight-year tenure and assured that they were always ready to provide an account of their actions.